Iran Escalates in Strait of Hormuz: 23 Incidents, Five Hit Engine Rooms

Iran escalated its attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz during October, with 23 incidents targeting vessels in or near the strait recorded in the first two weeks of the month, according to data from regional maritime groups and warnings from maritime security consultants. The data indicated that at least five of these incidents reported impacts to engine rooms.

Sources explained that direct strikes on engine rooms can cause fires and disable propulsion systems, leaving the vessel without power or movement for months and leading to costly repairs. At least two ships sank last week, including a container ship targeted in Hormuz, prompting Pakistan to warn of floating containers near the UAE coast.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Sunday that shipments are running at around 80% of their normal levels, while Iraq stated Monday that its exports are approaching pre-war levels. Preliminary data from Kpler indicated that the seven-day average of Middle East oil exports slightly exceeded pre-war levels.

Shipping and maritime security officials reported that Iran has begun using more missiles than drones, and that infrared-guided missiles tend to target the hottest parts of the ship. Phillip Belcher, marine director at the Intertanko oil tanker association, said that what we are seeing is an increase in the frequency of attacks, resulting in more engine room damage and disabling fires.

What do these terms mean?

Strait of Hormuz: A narrow waterway connecting the Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, through which a significant portion of global oil and gas exports passes.

Engine Room: The section containing the ship's engine and propulsion systems, and damage to it can paralyze the vessel.

Propulsion Systems: Systems that convert engine power into propeller motion or thrust, and their failure leaves the ship drifting without maneuverability.